Client Won't Pay: A Freelance Writer's Recovery Guide for Louisiana
Your Louisiana client won't pay? Here's exactly what to do: demand letters, small claims ($5,000), and invoice recovery steps.
⚖️ Louisiana Legal Snapshot
Is This Your Situation?
A client has received your work but is refusing, delaying, or unable to pay your invoice.
Check your situation:
- 📄 Do you have a written contract or clear agreement?
- 📬 Have you delivered the agreed work?
- 📅 Is the payment past due?
- 📧 Have you attempted to contact the client?
If you answered yes to most of these, you have a strong position in Louisiana.
Your 3-Step Response Path in Louisiana
Collect an Unpaid Invoice
Detailed Louisiana-specific guide with templates and resources.
Full Guide →Send a Demand Letter
Detailed Louisiana-specific guide with templates and resources.
Full Guide →File in Small Claims Court
Detailed Louisiana-specific guide with templates and resources.
Full Guide →Primary Tool for This Crisis
FreshBooks
Freelance invoicing & payment tracking
Official Louisiana Resources
- City Court / Justice of the Peace (up to $5,000): Find your local City Court / Justice of the Peace to file without an attorney.
- AG Consumer Protection: https://www.ag.state.la.us/ConsumerProtection — 1-800-351-4889
- Free Legal Aid: Southeast Louisiana Legal Services
- Mediation: Louisiana State Bar Association ADR Section — often faster and cheaper than court
- Louisiana Writers: Louisiana Writers' Guild
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first when facing Client Won't Pay in Louisiana?
Document everything immediately: your contract, all communications, invoices, and proof of delivery. Then send a formal written notice. Louisiana's 10-year statute of limitations gives you time, but evidence should be gathered now.
How much can I claim in Louisiana small claims court?
Louisiana's City Court / Justice of the Peace handles claims up to $5,000. No attorney is required. Filing fees are typically $30–$100.
Does Louisiana have laws protecting freelancers?
Louisiana doesn't have a dedicated freelance protection law, but contract law still protects you.
How long do I have to take legal action in Louisiana?
Louisiana's statute of limitations for written contracts is 10 years from the date of the breach. Act before this deadline.
Where can I get free legal help in Louisiana?
Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (https://slls.org) provides free civil legal assistance. The AG consumer protection line is 1-800-351-4889.